Botanical Name: Jasminum sambac

Common Names: Nithaya Malli, Mogra, Arabian Jasmine, Sampaguita (Philippines), Uralia Malli (in Tamil), and many regional variants.

Physical Appearance:

• Leaves: Nithaya Malli has dark green, glossy, and leathery leaves that grow in an opposite arrangement along the stems. The leaves are elliptical or ovate in shape and contribute to the plant’s ornamental value.

• Flowers:

  • The flowers of Nithaya Malli are small, white, and star-shaped with five petals that spread out symmetrically.
  • The flowers are extremely fragrant and have a sweet, intoxicating aroma that is often described as rich, pleasant, and long-lasting.
  • Flower Clusters: The flowers are borne in clusters or bunches at the tips of the branches. A single plant can produce a large number of flowers, especially during peak blooming seasons.

• Size: Nithaya Malli is typically a small to medium-sized shrub or a climbing vine that can grow anywhere from 2-4 meters in height (approximately 6-12 feet). It can also be grown in pots or containers for ornamental purposes.

• Growth Habit: Nithaya Malli tends to grow as a shrub but can also be trained to climb if given support. It is often seen in gardens, temples, and courtyards as a decorative and fragrant addition to the landscape.